236.272  Prequalification of sources.

(a)  Prequalification procedures may be used when necessary to ensure timely and efficient performance of critical construction projects. Prequalification-

(1)  Results in a list of sources determined to be qualified to perform a specific construction contract; and

(2)  Limits offerors to those with proven competence to perform in the required manner.

(b)  The head of the contracting activity must-

(1)  Authorize the use of prequalification by determining, in writing, that a construction project is of an urgency or complexity that requires prequalification; and

(2)  Approve the prequalification procedures.

(c)  For small businesses, the prequalification procedures must require the qualifying authority to-

(1)  Request a preliminary recommendation from the appropriate Small Business Administration regional office, if the qualifying authority believes a small business is not responsible;

(2)  Permit the small business to submit a bid or proposal if the preliminary recommendation is that the small business is responsible; and

(3)  Follow the procedures in FAR 19.6, if the small business is in line for award and is found nonresponsible.